CLERMONT-FERRAND, FRANCE - An unfortunate blowjob experience last weekend led to the explosion of the beloved Michelin Man mascot. Michelin representatives said the event took them completely by surprise.

“You always hear about the big white guy getting some in the breakroom,” one Michelin employee said. “But I never thought anything of it until I heard the pop. It was like a flat Michelin tire hissing out air, except with more wear and tear.”

The blowjob provider, who was identified only as “Trixie,” refused to comment—and she should be ashamed of herself.

Michelin also took this opportunity to warn women about the importance of proper blowjob technique.

Following the devastating incident, Michelin employee training will include mandatory sexual education courses advocating the benefits of abstinence, though Michelin also has a long history with rubbers, Michelin CEO Jean-Dominique Senard said.

A midnight vigil will be held Sunday night to remember the life of the mascot who touched so many.

“We’ve lost a legend,” a friend of the former Michelin mascot said. “The grief is really biting.”